Nigeria seeks BRICS membership
Jerry Adesewo
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has expressed Nigeria’s intention to apply for membership in BRICS, a group of five emerging economies that include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The Minister made this known during his visit to Moscow on March 6, 2024, where he held talks with his Russian counterpart, Mr. Sergey Lavrov.
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Amb. Tuggar said “Nigeria’s interest in joining BRICS was driven by its desire to enhance its global economic influence and to diversify its partnerships beyond the traditional Western allies,” adding that Nigeria recognised the strategic importance of BRICS as an alternative power center in the international system, which promotes peace, security, development, and cooperation based on fairness and mutual respect.
He also said that Nigeria shared common values and interests with BRICS members, such as the fight against terrorism and insurgency, the peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, and the expansion of trade and investment opportunities.
The minister said, “Nigeria is ready to contribute to the BRICS agenda and to benefit from its initiatives, such as the New Development Bank, the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, and the BRICS Business Council.” He expressed Nigeria’s support for the expansion of BRICS membership, which he said would reflect the diversity and dynamism of the global South.
The minister extended Nigeria’s appreciation to Russia for facilitating the development of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited and the Aluminium Smelting Company in Nigeria, which are key projects for Nigeria’s industrialisation. He also appreciated the military and defence cooperation between Nigeria and Russia, which dates back to the Soviet era. Other areas of collaboration include Russia’s support for education, especially through scholarships for Nigerian students.
Ambassador Tuggar concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its relations with Russia, which he described as an important ally and a strategic partner for Nigeria.